U.S. Engages Ukraine on Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia Meeting

U.S. officials are set to meet with Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia to evaluate Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions to Russia in pursuit of peace. Secretary of State Marco Rubio leads the discussions with a focus on improving U.S.-Ukraine relations post a contentious prior meeting. The outcome will influence future support and the proposed minerals deal between the U.S. and Ukraine.

U.S. officials are preparing for a crucial meeting in Saudi Arabia with a Ukrainian delegation on Tuesday, primarily to assess Ukraine’s readiness to make concessions to Russia to facilitate an end to the ongoing conflict. A focus will also be on gauging Ukraine’s commitment to improving relations with the Trump administration following a contentious exchange between President Trump and President Zelenskiy last month.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the U.S. delegation in Jeddah, accompanied by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The meeting will feature Andriy Yermak, a key aide to President Zelenskiy. One U.S. official emphasized the need for a realistic approach, stating, “You cannot say ‘I want peace’ and refuse to compromise on anything.”

U.S. officials are looking for indications that Ukraine is interested not only in peace but in a viable resolution. They noted that should Ukraine insist on retaining borders from 2014 or 2022 without flexibility, it would reflect poorly on their negotiation stance. Trump has expressed optimism regarding the meetings, stating, “We’re going to make a lot of progress, I believe, this week.”

President Zelenskiy announced his intention to travel to Saudi Arabia on Monday aiming to work towards peace. He expressed hope that the talks would yield beneficial results, emphasizing the importance of advancing peace while maintaining support.

Ukraine’s European allies argue that any agreement with Russia must come from a position of strength, advising against any hasty negotiations with the aggressor. Zelenskiy has consistently asserted that Russia’s intentions are not geared towards peace and poses a threat to other European nations.

In earlier discussions, U.S. officials met with Russian counterparts in Riyadh, focusing on reopening communication channels significantly curtailed under the previous administration. Trump’s recent statements reflect growing concern over Ukraine’s dwindling resources, emphasizing that rapid negotiations with Russia are essential.

Amid recent cuts in U.S. support, Trump’s administration has halted some military aid, prompting concern that such actions might inadvertently prolong the war. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes acknowledged recent progress in U.S.-Ukraine relations, highlighting Trump’s conciliatory comments towards Zelenskiy.

During the upcoming talks, Witkoff has indicated hopes to establish a “framework” for a ceasefire and peace deal. A significant topic will be a pending minerals deal that Ukraine seeks to solidify with U.S. security guarantees. Both parties have expressed renewed interest in signing the accord that was previously shelved following a fractious meeting between Trump and Zelenskiy.

This meeting in Saudi Arabia is pivotal for U.S.-Ukraine relations regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia. The U.S. delegation aims to assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions and enhance cooperation with the Trump administration. President Zelenskiy’s commitment to maintaining support while pursuing peace contrasts with concerns from U.S. officials about the viability of negotiations. The outcome of these discussions may have implications for the future of peace in the region and the support Ukraine receives from the United States.

Original Source: www.usnews.com